11 Stylish Waterproof Pieces to Keep You Dry

As September bids farewell with uncharacteristically high temperatures, it’s tempting to think autumn is far off. However, the inevitable rain showers are lurking just around the corner, ready to surprise us when we least expect it.

With autumn and winter ahead, preparing for wet conditions is essential. We’ve gathered a selection of must-have items that ensure you remain stylish and, more importantly, protected from the elements.

From crucial outerwear to essential waterproof accessories, these items will see you through everything from drizzles to torrential downpours.

Technical Shell Jacket

For wet conditions, there are various types of outerwear available, each with distinct features. The two key terms to understand are ‘water-resistant’ and ‘waterproof.’ While they may appear similar, they serve different purposes.

Water-resistant garments, made from fabrics like treated cotton, can handle light showers and even moderate rain. However, for complete protection against downpours, ‘waterproof’ is the way to go.

Once seen only on hikers, the emergence of fashionable techwear has made items like shell jackets prevalent in contemporary wardrobes.

These lightweight jackets, crafted from high-performance materials such as Gore-Tex, ensure durability against the rain while blending in with stylish designs. Brands like Arc’teryx Veilance, ACRONYM, and The North Face offer shell jackets that fit seamlessly into streetwear aesthetics, showcasing unique hardware and structural details.

Gore-Tex Sneakers

While boots are often the go-to option for wet-weather footwear, there are many sneaker-styled alternatives that can keep your feet dry even in heavy rain.

The influence of techwear has integrated outdoor aesthetics into everyday fashion, leading to urban-inspired designs based on hiking and climbing sneakers.

With chunky sneakers maintaining their popularity, it’s no surprise that outdoor styles are increasingly ingrained in fashion. Brands like Salomon, On Running, Nike, Asics, and Hoka offer excellent options specifically designed for wet environments, while brands such as Keen produce rugged footwear suited for workwear vibes.

Look for models featuring Gore-Tex membranes, which are the standard for waterproof footwear. While some brands utilize treated polyester, this often doesn’t match the effectiveness of genuine Gore-Tex.

Hiking Boots

When it comes to hiking boots, they are available in two main styles: rugged leather and modern technical fabric.

Leather options are inherently waterproof and can be further treated, while technical boots use waterproof membranes and polyester layers for protection against water. They also differ in style, with technical variations being more versatile for modern streetwear.

Brands like Hoka and Salomon produce high-quality hiking boots with Gore-Tex membranes that seamlessly fit into contemporary sneaker collections. Meanwhile, leather hiking boots from labels like Fracap and Diemme provide stunning designs suitable for various menswear styles.

Sturdy Umbrella

While an umbrella might not evoke the excitement of Gene Kelly in “Singin’ In The Rain,” having one on a rainy day can be a true blessing when others are caught unprepared.

Umbrellas come in various styles. While compact, foldable versions are convenient to carry, a sturdy, handcrafted umbrella adds sophistication to any outfit.

Instead of going for mass-produced designs, consider investing in one from umbrella specialists like James Smith & Sons, Fox Umbrellas, or the Milanese atelier Pasotti. Their unique, high-quality umbrellas will significantly elevate your rainy-day game.

Waterproof Bag

While staying dry is vital, safeguarding your belongings is equally crucial. How many times have you reached your destination, only to find your bag soaked through?

Today, waterproof bags are essential, especially with the prevalence of electronic devices we carry. Fortunately, numerous trendy brands offer stylish options that keep your items safe and dry.

Wet-weather specialists like Rains provide a fantastic selection of waterproof bags, including roll tops, rucksacks, totes, and holdalls, all coated to repel water effortlessly.

Innovative brands like Groundtruth also offer unique, water-repellent bags made from recycled plastic bottles.

Technical Trousers

Recollect the discomfort of wearing clumsy waterproof overtrousers? They can often feel restrictive while emitting an unwelcome crinkling sound. Instead, consider lightweight technical trousers that keep your legs dry without sacrificing style.

Most waterproof styles are produced by outdoor brands like Musto, Patagonia, Rab, and Berghaus. These pants are typically made from breathable nylon treated for water resistance, effectively repelling rain. While they may not match tailored wool trousers in elegance, they are perfect for those who adopt a techwear or streetwear aesthetic.

If you prefer something cutting-edge, look to Rains, whose wide-leg cargo rain pants made from their signature PU fabric feature ultrasonically welded seams for a modern touch.

Waterproof Hat

Having a waterproof hat might seem unnecessary when you have an umbrella, but let’s face it—umbrellas can be forgotten or left behind. Investing in wet-weather headwear is a wise move.

While many countryside brands offer traditional waxed cotton and leather hats, contemporary labels provide a range of waterproof options, from sporty bucket hats and caps by Nike and Adidas to expedition-ready styles from Canada Goose and The North Face.

Gore-Tex Gloves

Though a smart pair of leather gloves provides some protection from rain, they don’t dry effectively, leaving the wearer with cold, wet hands. This is where Gore-Tex gloves become vital, as they feature an impervious membrane to keep moisture out.

Gore-Tex gloves are lightweight, meaning you don’t have to stick with bulky ski gloves. Cycling-specific designs also work perfectly for daily commuters, as they are streamline and easy to tuck away when indoors.

Gore Wear’s Infinium collection stands out because they blend sleek aesthetics with windproof technology, available in both classic black and bold neon colorways.

Overshoes/Galoshes

When heavy rain hits, stepping into a puddle while wearing your favorite shoes can be devastating. Overshoes, or galoshes, are practical accessories designed to fit over your dress shoes, protecting them from water damage and stains.

Brands like Swims offer sleek, modern galoshes in various colors, making them easy to wear over shoes while commuting. They help keep leather shoes in pristine condition during rain and can be easily removed upon arrival. Investing in a pair can significantly extend the lifespan of your finest footwear.

Waxed Cotton Jackets

Before the introduction of modern waterproof solutions, waxed cotton was the preferred choice for those spending extended periods outdoors. Its charm has stood the test of time. A well-crafted wax jacket repels rain, develops character with wear, and offers a rugged appeal that synthetic shells can’t match.

Barbour is the quintessential name in this category, showcasing timeless designs like the Beaufort and Bedale. Belstaff adds a motorcycle flair with the iconic Trialmaster, while Manchester-based Private White V.C. and Nigel Cabourn offer contemporary interpretations, fusing traditional craftsmanship with sleek design. For a stylish yet functional wet-weather option, look no further than these classic pieces.

Merino Wool Base Layers